Gingerbread Trail Tour of Homes – Waxahachie, TX

June 7–8, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Daily

the “Gingerbread City,” welcomes you to the 55th Annual Gingerbread Trail Tour of Homes

One of our oldest and most beloved annual events that has been Waxahachie tradition for 55 years is the Gingerbread Trail Tour of Homes taking place on June 7-8, 2025. Organized by the Ellis County Museum, this curated tour invites visitors to explore the intricate detailing, craftsmanship, and design that earned the city its whimsical nickname "The Gingerbread City".

2025 Featured Homes

This year’s self-guided tour features five private historic residences, each offering a rare glimpse into Waxahachie’s architectural legacy. Confirmed homes on the 2025 Trail include:

900 Bryson Street - A grand Queen Anne masterpiece with wraparound porch, turreted gable, and original stained glass accents.
502 W. Marvin Avenue - Rich in Craftsman detail, this early 20th-century gem features intricate woodwork, coffered ceilings, and restored hardwood floors.
512 N. College Street - Classic Folk Victorian residence showcasing ornate gingerbread trim and expansive front gardens.
515 N. College Street - A stately Colonial Revival with commanding columns, symmetrical façade, and period lighting.
911 E. Marvin Street - This hidden treasure combines Prairie-style architecture with original leaded glass and charming historical flourishes.

Additional tour stops

The Texas Theater - A beautifully restored 1920s-era movie theater in the heart of downtown Waxahachie.
Meat Church BBQ Supply - Nationally recognized by BBQ aficionados, this destination shop offers premium rubs, seasonings, and grilling gear—founded by pitmaster Matt Pittman.
First United Methodist Church of Waxahachie - One of the city’s most architecturally significant buildings, featuring stained glass, vaulted ceilings, and a storied spiritual legacy dating back to 1850.
Nicholas P. Sims Library & Lyceum - This literary landmark features elegant neoclassical design and continues to serve as a vibrant hub for community education and cultural programming.
Historic Ellis County Courthouse Tours - Step inside one of Texas’ most architecturally celebrated courthouses. Guided tours showcase the building’s spiral staircases, grand rotunda, and ornate stonework.
Chautauqua Auditorium - This rare octagonal wooden auditorium, built in 1902, hosted orators, musicians, and thinkers of the early 20th century. It remains a local treasure and venue for music, lectures, and special events.
Ellis County Master Gardeners’ Garden Tours - Guided by certified Master Gardeners, these tours offer expert insight into native plants, seasonal color, and sustainable landscape design.
Ellis County Museum – Delve into Waxahachie's rich past with museum exhibits, available only to Gingerbread Trail ticketholders during the Trail weekend.

Special Events

VIP Tour Experience – Elevate your Gingerbread Trail adventure with the VIP Tour — a full-day, all-access experience designed with our most enthusiastic guests in mind. Begin with an exclusive mimosa reception and light bites at the Ellis County Museum, where you'll enjoy a relaxed start and early access to tour information. Then, set out to explore the 2025 Tour homes at your own pace, with special perks and a little extra hospitality along the way. Limited availability — treat yourself to the ultimate Trail experience!
NEW FOR 2025 - Echoes of The Past Paranormal Tour – Discover the city's haunted history on an enchanting evening walk and paranormal demonstration.
Premiere Party (Thursday, June 5 from 5pm - 8pm) - Kick off the Gingerbread Trail weekend in style at our exclusive Preview Party! Be among the first to step inside the beautifully curated 2025 Tour homes — no lines, no waiting. This intimate event is limited to just 120 guests and features handcrafted cocktails, delicious bites, and live music in a charming setting. Tickets are limited- purchase before they are sold out!
Win a Heritage Quilt - Purchase a raffle ticket for your chance to win a stunning quilt donated by a museum enthusiast! All raffle ticket sales benefit the Ellis County Museum.

Stay updated on the latest announcements, house spotlights, and volunteer info:

Gingerbread Trail Facebook Event: 55th Annual Gingerbread Trail - Tour of Homes
Ellis County Museum Facebook: @EllisCountyMuseum
Ellis County Museum Instagram: @ecmuseum
Buy Tickets Here: Gingerbread Trail - Tour of Homes Tickets

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History of the Gingerbread Trail

Founded in 1968 by the Ellis County Museum and local preservationists, the Gingerbread Trail began as a grassroots effort to celebrate Waxahachie’s unparalleled concentration of Victorian homes. Over the decades, it has grown into one of Texas’ most treasured heritage tourism events, drawing thousands of visitors from across the region and beyond.

The term “Gingerbread” refers to the highly decorative wood trim that adorns many of Waxahachie’s historic homes—intricate scrollwork, spindles, and lattice that resemble the embellishments on a gingerbread house. Today, this annual celebration not only preserves the city’s historic fabric, but also supports local history programming through the Ellis County Museum.